Hot off the press. R&B singer R. Kelly was acquitted by a jury of his peers earlier this afternoon in Chicago. The jury deliberated less than 24 hours. You can read online news outlets to find out more details specific to the case.
Wow, where do I begin? First let me say that this subject relates to gospel music because R Kelly has penned some major hits for several gospel artists. Trinitee 5:7's first hit, "God's Grace" was written and produced by the R. Yolanda Adams covered his Grammy winning hit "I Believe I Can Fly" both as a solo and a duet with the late R&B singer Gerald Levert. Bishop T.D. Jake's Potter's House choir also covered an inspirational Kelly song. Kelly has long been known to mix raunchy lyrics and religion on his albums.
I have very mixed feelings about this verdict. I want to believe that the decision was correct and that an innocent man was spared jail time. On the other hand, if he really is guilty my heart goes out to his victim(s). If that is the case I can only hope and pray that this trial sent a wake-up call to the singer and that he will seek the help he needs.
Where do you stand on this verdict? Do you believe he is innocent? More importantly have the accusations affected the way you view him not only as a man, but as an artist? Will you support his music? I'd love to hear your reactions. From what I have read on other websites and internet communities, opinions are divided. Many people try and separate the man from his music and say he is a genius which has nothing to do with his personal life. On the other hand, others feel that supporting his music is equal to supporting his alleged problems.
Please feel free to email your comments or call the radio station listener lines. This is a topic we will visit again.
Love,
J
